Xiaomi Redmi Note 7: which version of Android is installed and how to update it

Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 is one of the most popular smartphones in the budget segment, released in 2019. Despite its age, the device is still actively used due to balanced characteristics and regular updates from the manufacturer. However, many owners are still confused in the versions of Android and MIUI that were installed on this model. In this article, we will understand what firmware stood on the Redmi Note 7 out of the box, what updates have been released over the years, and whether you can install a more recent version of the OS yourself.

It’s important to understand that Xiaomi often releases devices with different firmware modifications depending on the region of sales. For example, the global version (Redmi Note 7 Global) may receive updates later than the Chinese version (Redmi Note 7 China), we will consider all options, including official and custom firmware, and will give instructions on how to check the current version of Android and MIUI on your device.

If you are planning to buy a used Redmi Note 7 or just want to understand the capabilities of your smartphone – this article will help to avoid common mistakes when updating and choosing firmware.

Which version of Android was on the Redmi Note 7 when it was released?

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 originally went on sale with Android 9 Pie and the MIUI 10 shell, which was standard configuration for most regions, including:

• 🌍 Global version (lavender_global) — Europe, Asia (except China), Latin America;
• 🇨🇳 Chinese version (lavender) – with pre-installed services for the local market;
• 🇷🇺 Russian version (lavender_ru) — with localized services (Yandex, Mail.ru, etc.).

Importantly, Chinese devices often received updates before the global ones, but had limitations — for example, the lack of Google Play Services and some standard apps, which had to be installed manually or reflashed to the global version.

In the Chinese market, some devices were sold with MIUI without Google services, which created problems when used outside of China. If you buy a used Redmi Note 7, be sure to check the firmware region in the settings - this will help to avoid incompatibility with applications.

Official Android updates for Redmi Note 7: chronology

Xiaomi supported the Redmi Note 7 with updates for 2 years after its release, which is typical for budget models.

The latest official update for the Redmi Note 7 was MIUI 12.5 based on Android 10. Xiaomi has not released Android 11 or newer versions for this model, despite numerous requests from users, due to the limitations of hardware (Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 processor) and the company's policy to support budget devices.

⚠️ Warning: If you are offered to upgrade Redmi Note 7 to Android 11 or 12 via unofficial firmware, be careful. Such manipulations can lead to loss of warranty, unstable operation or even a "brick" of the device (complete inoperability).

How to check the current version of Android and MIUI on Redmi Note 7?

To find out what firmware is installed on your smartphone, follow the following steps:

1. Open the Settings app (cog icon).
2. Scroll down and select About Phone.
3. Click on the MIUI version – the current shell (e.g. MIUI Global 12.5.3 Stable) will be indicated here.
4. Slap a few times on the Android version bar to see the full information (e.g. Android 10 QKQ1.190910.002).

You can also use the EngineerMode code to obtain advanced data:

##4636##

In the menu that opens, select Phone Information – it will show the Android and MIUI version, as well as the processor and memory data.

If you have MIUI 12.5 in your settings but want to get more recent features, consider installing custom firmware (which we’ll talk about later), but remember that this is a risky move that requires technical skills.

Can I upgrade the Redmi Note 7 to Android 11 or later?

Xiaomi has stopped supporting Redmi Note 7 since MIUI 12.5 was released on Android 10, but there are a few alternative ways to get a more recent version of the OS:

• 🔧 Custom firmware (e.g. LineageOS, Pixel Experience) – require unlocking the bootloader and installing via TWRP;
• 📱 Ported MIUI — Unofficial builds based on new versions of Android (for example, MIUI 13 from enthusiasts);
• 🔄 Switch to a different model – if you need official updates, consider the Redmi Note 10 or newer.

The most popular option among power users is LineageOS 18.1 (Android 11).

• ✅ Clean Android without any extra software;
• ✅ Regular security updates;
• ✅ Ability to fine-tune the interface.

There are, however, downsides:

• ❌ Loss of official guarantee;
• ❌ Possible bugs with camera or sensors;
• ❌ Difficulty rolling back to stock firmware.

⚠️ Attention: Installing custom firmware requires unlocking the bootloader, which resets the device to factory settings. Data backup is mandatory! Also note that on some versions of the Redmi Note 7, unlocking can take up to 720 hours (30 days) of waiting due to Xiaomi's policy.

Comparison of official and custom firmware: what to choose?

If you are in doubt about whether to switch to informal firmware, note the key differences:

The choice depends on your priorities:

• 🏆 For stability and reliability, stay on the official MIUI 12.5;
• 🛠️ For experiments and new features, try LineageOS or Pixel Experience;
• 📱 For maximum performance, consider buying a new smartphone (e.g., a new smartphone, POCO X3 Pro or Redmi Note 11).

💡

Custom firmware gives you access to new versions of Android, but requires technical skills and lacks warranties. The official MIUI 12.5 remains the most stable option for everyday use.

Frequent problems after updating and their solution

Even official updates sometimes cause problems, and here are the typical problems and ways to fix them:

• 🔋 Fast battery discharge - reset the cache in Recovery mode (Powering) + Loudness up → Wipe Cache);
• 📶 Poor communication or lack of network – check your settings APN or re-install SIM-map;
• 🎵 Missing sound in the speaker – clean the headphone jack (possibly triggered the sensor connection);
• 📱 Hangs and lags – perform reset to factory settings (don’t forget to make a backup!).

If after the update Redmi Note 7 stopped turning on or got stuck on the MIUI logo, try:

1. Press Power + Volume up for 10-15 seconds for forced reboot;
2. If it doesn’t help, log in to Recovery Mode and select Wipe Data (this will delete all data!).
3. In extreme cases, reflash the device through the Mi Flash Tool (requires a PC).

💡

Before resetting, untie your Mi Account in Settings → Accounts → Mi Account. Otherwise, after resetting, the phone may require the username / password of the previous owner (protection against theft).

If you encounter an error "Cannot load Android system" or similar messages - this is a sign of damage to the firmware, in this case, only a complete flashing through Fastboot or Fastboot will help. EDL-Mode (requires an authorized Xiaomi account).

Where to download the official firmware for Redmi Note 7?

If you need to restore or update Redmi Note 7 to the latest official version, download firmware only from trusted sources:

• 🔗 Official Xiaomi website — MIUI Downloads (select the lavender model for the global version);
• 🔗 Forum 4PDA — Redmi Note 7 theme (both official and custom builds are laid out there);
• 🔗 Xiaomi Firmware Updater – firmware archive (convenient to search by region).

When downloading, pay attention to:

• 📌 Region – firmware should match your model (Global, China, Russia);
• 📌 Type of build: Stable (stable) or Developer (for testing);
• 📌 Android Version – the latest official version for Redmi Note 7 – Android 10.

To install the firmware through Recovery:

1. Download the file with the.zip extension;
2. Rename it to update.zip and place it at the root of the phone’s memory.
3. Go to Recovery Mode (Nutrition + Volume Up)
4. Select Install update.zip and confirm the installation.

⚠️ Warning: Never install firmware from other models (e.g. Redmi Note 7 Pro) – this will cause the device to break).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions About Redmi Note 7